People often  tell you how hard it is to go on exchange and start a new life... how to adapt to a new environment and how to find friends… but what do they say about the time after?  Even though sometimes my time in the US seemed like eternity, time flew by and I always knew the day would come and I have to leave the life I just built. I had to leave the people that I love like my own family. I had to leave some of the most loving and caring friends I’ve ever had. I had to leave the little town that became my second home, my high school, and just every single thing I worked so hard to get within the year. But most of all, I had to leave the experience. Leaving your exchange year means it will NEVER be the same again. Sure you can come back and I will, but I’ll never open my locker again or celebrate homecoming. I can’t text my exchange friends, because they will still be all over the world. Even with my family, will it ever be the same again or just feel like a visit? A

today one year ago I started the most amazing, life-changing, and memorable 10 month of my life. I still remember the first weeks when every trip to the grocery market was super exciting, the biggest challenge of the day was to open my locker, and some talks could have been in Chinese as well because I didn't understand a word. But time flew by and people who were once just names on a sheet of paper became my family, people I just met became friends, and Michigan became my second home. This year taught me SO much and I cherish all the memories and experiences I made, beautiful and bad. So I just want to say thank y'all for being part of my adventure and making it so unforgettable and fun!! THANK YOU Mom & Dad for giving me a home and a place in your heart!! You are the best, most loving, caring, supporting, and fun host family I could have asked for. I miss you guys so much and I work hard for a coming back soon! ❤️ have fun watching my little video :)